Model Code of Conduct in focus after complaint against PM Modi; relevance of exit polls highlighted

The Election Commission of India is examining complaints alleging violation of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s address during ongoing elections. The issue has brought renewed attention to MCC provisions, its enforcement, and related concepts such as exit polls and opinion polls, which are important for ensuring free and fair elections.

Why in News

Opposition parties alleged that PM’s address violated MCC during election period.

Election Commission of India is examining the complaint.

Model Code of Conduct (MCC)

Definition: MCC is a set of guidelines issued by the Election Commission to regulate the conduct of political parties, candidates, and the government during elections.

Objective:

Ensure free and fair elections

Prevent misuse of government machinery

Maintain level playing field among parties

Duration: Comes into force from the announcement of election schedule and remains till declaration of results.

Key Provisions:

No use of official machinery for campaigning

No announcement of new schemes or projects

No appeal to caste, religion, or communal sentiments

Campaigning must remain issue-based and non-personal

Special Provision (Party in Power): Added in 1979 to prevent ruling party from gaining unfair advantage.

Legal Status & Enforcement:

MCC is not a law (non-statutory) but a moral code.

Enforced under Article 324 of the Constitution.

Violations can attract action under:

Representation of the People Act, 1951

Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita / IPC provisions

Exit Polls vs Opinion Polls

Exit Polls

Conducted after voters have cast their votes

Aim to predict election outcomes based on voter responses

Opinion Polls

Conducted before voting begins

Reflect public opinion and voter preferences

Regulation

Exit polls are regulated and restricted during election period to prevent influence on voters

Key Facts:

MCC originated in 1960 Kerala Assembly elections

Nationwide adoption in 1962 Lok Sabha elections

Covers:

Campaign conduct

Polling day behavior

Role of party in power

Applies:

Entire country (Lok Sabha elections)

Entire state (Assembly elections)

Ensures electoral integrity and democratic fairness